SRINAGAR, May 27: In a significant move aimed at reviving Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced that upcoming cabinet meetings will be held in Pahalgam and Gulmarg—two of the region’s most prominent tourist destinations. This unprecedented decision comes in the wake of a steep decline in tourist arrivals following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
This will mark the first time the National Conference-led government will convene cabinet meetings outside the traditional capitals of Srinagar and Jammu. The initiative is intended to restore confidence among tourists and stakeholders, and to send a strong message that Jammu and Kashmir remains safe and open for visitors.
The tourism industry, a critical pillar of the region’s economy, has been severely impacted since the terror attack at Baisaran ground near Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed and several others injured in an assault carried out by Pakistan-backed militants. In the aftermath, local stakeholders report that nearly 90 percent of existing bookings have been cancelled, dealing a heavy blow to businesses reliant on tourism.
Chief Minister Abdullah is expected to be accompanied by members of the cabinet as well as top civil and police officials during the meetings in Pahalgam and Gulmarg. The delegation will also engage directly with stakeholders from the tourism industry to assess ground realities and address their concerns.
On May 15, CM Abdullah met with representatives of the Hoteliers Association at the Civil Secretariat to discuss the impact of the attack on the tourism sector. During the meeting, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of visitors and supporting the industry’s recovery.
“We fully understand the challenges our tourism stakeholders are facing,” the Chief Minister said. “Holding cabinet meetings in these locations is a symbolic yet substantial step to restore faith and send a clear message: Jammu and Kashmir is resilient, welcoming, and ready for tourism.”
The government hopes the initiative will help dispel fear, encourage fresh bookings, and catalyze the gradual return of visitors to the picturesque Valley.
